Tooth Development

Q: What would be normal tooth growth?

A: Patterns of primary tooth eruption vary from child to child. However, there are usually eight incisors, or front teeth, present by the first year. By three years of age, all twenty of the primary teeth are usually present.

Q: What can you tell me about primary teeth?

A: Even before you can see them, primary teeth are developing under the gums of your infant. Though they eventually fall out, caring for your child’s primary teeth is important because they reserve space for the permanent teeth.

Q: When are primary teeth normally lost?

A: Children usually lose their primary teeth between the ages of four and twelve. The usual sequence for losing primary teeth begins with the lower front teeth, followed by the upper front teeth. Eventually all twenty primary teeth will be lost.

Q: What are the difference between primary and permanent teeth?

A: There are many differences between primary and permanent teeth. Primary teeth are smaller, whiter, and have a more rounded profile than permanent teeth. Primary molars have more cusps than pre-molars and sometimes resemble tiny flower buds. Permanent molars eventually erupt behind the primary molars and are substantially larger than any of the other teeth.

Q: What happens if my child loses baby teeth too early?

A: A baby tooth usually stays in in until a permanent tooth underneath pushes it out and takes its place. Unfortunately, some children lose a baby tooth too soon. A tooth might be knocked out accidentally or removed because of dental disease. If this happens, your pediatric dentist may recommend a space maintainer to prevent future space loss and dental problems.

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